Uriri MP Mark Nyamita has condemned the use of young people by politicians to unleash violence against political rivals, warning leaders against turning youths into tools of political conflict.
Speaking in Migori, Nyamita said recent scenes of young people armed with crude weapons and engaging in clashes in Homa Bay County were worrying and risked giving the region a reputation for violence.
“We have seen scenes from our neighbouring county, young people walking around with crude weapons, throwing stones, burning tyres on the roads, just fighting amongst ourselves,” Nyamita said.
The MP said political leaders should seek support through persuasion and peaceful campaigns rather than mobilising youths to attack their opponents.
“I personally support President William Ruto for a second term but we can persuade our people and not use violence,” he said.
Nyamita said politicians had a responsibility to protect young people instead of exposing them to danger for political gain.
“I also have boys who are strong and they can fight. But do not take a machete to hurt another person. This is not what we thought our region was going to be. We cannot be a region known for violence,” he said.
He urged leaders across the political divide to campaign peacefully and convince voters through their policies and development records.
“I want to urge all our leaders that it is possible to persuade our voters without necessarily inciting or encouraging them to violence,” Nyamita said.
The MP condemned politicians who allegedly recruit young people to participate in violent confrontations, saying those behind such actions should be held accountable.
“If there are leaders who have planned violence against others, who are using other people’s children, shame on them,” he said.
Nyamita said young people should instead be encouraged to pursue education, employment and business opportunities rather than being given money to fight political battles.
“We can go on doing our businesses without resorting to violence. It pains my heart when I see young people, who should be encouraged, but we give them small amounts of money to fight among themselves,” he said.
He accused political leaders of exposing other people’s children to danger while keeping their own families away from the violence.
“Our children are safe in our big homes surrounded by security but we are using other people’s children for violence,” Nyamita said.
Nyamita’s remarks came after violence and clashes erupted in Homa Bay County during Linda Mwananchi Movement rallies.
The clashes involved road blockades, destruction of property, a vehicle that was set on fire and physical attacks on journalists and residents. Several people were injured while 17 suspects were arrested.
Main access roads and highways leading into Homa Bay Town were blocked using stones, logs and burning debris, disrupting movement.
Youths also stormed the Homa Bay Tourist Hotel, where windows were shattered and property damaged, while valuables were reportedly stolen.
